Nearly 10 percent of Illinois adults have diabetes

CHICAGO — Illinois health officials are putting out the word about diabetes management and prevention.

The Illinois Department of Public Health is joining the American Diabetes Association to raise awareness about the disease that affects nearly 10 percent of adults in the state. Tuesday was "Diabetes Alert Day," a day set side to raise awareness.

Health department officials say the highest prevalence of diabetes in Illinois is among residents of Alexander, Pulaski and Williamson counties.

People can prevent or delay diabetes by losing just 7 percent of body weight — that's about 15 pounds if you weigh 200 — and through regular physical activity and healthy eating.

And the state provides funding to local health departments and community organizations to offer programs with information about diabetes prevention and management.